One of the few positive effects of a recession is that people in general become more creative in how they spend their time and money. This is probably the most true when it comes to family camping holidays. This year, when we begin to see the rays of hope that the recession, excuse the pun, stepping back, many of us are still reluctant to go on an extravagant trip. More people choose to hit the road instead of flying to the friendly skies, and there are several ways to do it.
Think about running into a recreational vehicle, triggering a flashback from the 2006 Robin Williams movie, RV? Relax! And think about joining thousands of other families who have found that family-style holidays in an RV can be interesting and relaxing, as well as economical. RV holidays are more affordable than our typical American-style trip to popular megaparks.
Consider this: an international travel and tourism research firm found at its most recent (in 2008, when fuel prices were at a cyclical maximum), typical RV family holidays average between 27 and 61 percent cheaper per day than other types vacations. Among the RV vacations, even those that were made in a super-luxury Type A diesel car were less expensive than flying and staying at a hotel. For example, for a family of four who have a 7-day vacation from Chicago to Branson, the cost ranges from $ 1,700 for those traveling on off-road vehicles plus a tourist trailer, camping out and cooking their own meals to $ 3,500 for those traveling luxury motorhomes, stopping at RV resorts, preparing most of their own meals. This compares with more than $ 4,000 for the same family vacation if they prefer to travel by plane, rent a car, stay at a hotel, and dine in restaurants.
Of course, RVing is not for everyone. If your thoughts about the perfect vacation mean that you don’t need to make beds, cook and clean up after family, this may not be for you. And you will need to make many small decisions along the way. If you are waiting for continuous relaxation on this holiday, and you want someone else to take care of you almost everything, the RV is definitely not suitable for you.
But compromises can include new discoveries - each other and the world in which we live - that can significantly outweigh the troubles in everyday affairs. National Parks of America are incredibly beautiful and very accessible, offering many recreational opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Swimming, mountain biking, rafting, climbing and hiking are all great options for a family holiday, and they are just a little nicer when you have a comfortable home to return, cool down (or warm up) and enjoy a snack or a nap.
If you are new to the concept of RVing, be sure to do your homework before you commit yourself and your family in this new adventure. There are a number of websites and online articles that discuss the pros and cons of RV holidays. Be sure to read a few conversations about both sides of the equation to determine whether RVing is for you. There are also several good campground directories available on the Internet that can help with trip planning. Most importantly, talk to your family about how different - and fun! - and RV vacations can be, offering the opportunity to see new places, make new things and spend some time together. If everyone stands up, make your plans and hit the road!
